The Ultrafast Photonics Devices and Research Laboratory at AFRL conducts basic and applied research in the field of photonics. This research opportunity involves the development of novel integrated photonics devices and circuits, including both active and passive components. Experience numerically simulating components, such as interferometric devices, novel waveguides, nonlinear components, modulators, detectors, etc. is highly desired. In this position, the candidate will lead and contribute to the design, simulation, layout, and characterization of devices and systems which will be fabricated through multi-project wafer runs made available through AIM Photonics or other foundries. Working closely with a multi-functional team and research staff, the candidate will help advance the next-generation of integrated photonic systems.

Overall, opportunities exist to contribute in this area experimentally, theoretically, and/or through simulations depending on the individual’s background and interest level.

References:

1. J. S. Suelzer, T. B. Simpson, N. G. Usechak, "Extreme pulses in gain-switched semiconductor lasers," Opt. Lett., vol. 48, no. 16, 4237-4240 (2023)

2. B. M. Melus, J. S. Suelzer, and R. M. Reano, "Experimental characterization and analysis of an adjoint method inverse design compact edge coupler solution," Opt. Express, Vol. 33, no. 21, 43494-43504 (2025)

3. J. Haefner, P. Thapalia, F. A. Juneghani and S. Fathpour, "Slow-Wave-Enhanced High-Efficiency Electro-Optic Modulator on Thin-Film Lithium Niobate," IEEE Photon. J., vol. 18, no. 1, pp. 1-7 (2026)

Integrated photonics; Integrated photonic circuits; Silicon photonics; InP photonics; PICs; High-speed test and measurement; Electronic-photonic system design and simulation; Laser dynamics; Robust packaging; Low-noise oscillators; Tunable oscillators; Nonlinear optics; filters;

citizenship

Open to U.S. citizens

level

Open to Postdoctoral and Senior applicants

Additional Benefits

relocation

Awardees who reside more than 50 miles from their host laboratory and remain on tenure for at least six months are eligible for paid relocation to within the vicinity of their host laboratory.

health insurance

A group health insurance program is available to awardees and their qualifying dependents in the United States.